Lindsey Vonn Optimistic of Being 'perfectly positioned' for the upcoming Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn had a surgical implant fitted to her right knee during her time away from competitive skiing.
Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn has declared she will be "in an excellent position" for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, after claiming a place on the rostrum for the fourth time in five World Cup events.
The veteran athlete, who achieved a milestone by becoming the oldest downhill World Cup winner, finished third in the super-G in Val d'Isere on Sunday. This marked her one hundred and forty-second career World Cup podium finish.
Strong Return in the French Alps
Competing at the iconic venue for the first time in eight years, Vonn finished the course in a time of one minute 20.60 seconds. She was 0.36 seconds behind winner Sofia Goggia of Italy, with New Zealand's Alice Robinson securing second place.
"I was slightly lacking the right line on the initial jump," Vonn remarked. "After that, I performed strongly. I'm happy with my performance today, unlike in the super-G in St Moritz, where I was not aggressive enough."
This result was her second top-three finish at Val d'Isere over the weekend, having also finished third in the downhill race on Saturday.
An Incredible Return from Retirement
Vonn ended her career in February 2019 as a result of persistent injuries. However, she staged a competitive comeback in December 2024 after a partial knee replacement.
With 47 days remaining until the 2026 Winter Games, which are scheduled for 6-22 February, Vonn's form are timely.
She already possesses an Olympic gold and two Olympic bronze medals from previous Games and is strongly positioned to represent the United States at the next Olympics.
"In Cortina, I will be in a good place," the athlete confirmed.
Aiming for Further Glory
In addition to her Games aspirations, Vonn is also aiming to increase the four World Cup titles she has won over a career spanning two decades.
She presently enjoys a substantial lead at the top of the overall downhill standings and is ranked fifth in the super-G World Cup table.
This current World Cup circuit includes a nine more events taking place before the season finals in Norway on 21 March 2026.